East region coaching conference

The Scottish FA’s East region hosted its annual coaching conference at the home of St Johnstone last weekend.

Coaches from the area - ranging from grassroots to SPL level - met to share ideas on the development of coaching in Scotland.

East regional manager for Scottish football’s governing body Ian Lowe said: “The long term aim of the Scottish FA regions is to grow the game and get more people playing football.

“Events such as the coaching conference go a long way to develop and enthuse coaches of all levels to ensure that we continue to produce coaches able to inform, motivate and challenge our young and old footballers.”

The conference consisted of a mix of classroom and pitch-based activities.

Manchester United’s development coach Jeff Flitcroft was one of the star attractions who gave an outline of the “United Vision” – a system of coaching aimed at providing tailor-made feedback on training performance.

Jeff displayed a variety of drills aimed at challenging footballers to do their best and focus on specific outcomes.

The ability to use both feet and spatial awareness were key attributes his coaching method aimed to develop.

The centres are a crucial first step on the Scottish FA player pathway and aim to widen the pool of talented male and female players.

An explanation of the theory behind the centres and the demands placed upon the players, coupled with the characteristics of the Scottish way of playing, was followed by a pitch session delivered expertly by Scottish FA football development officer Gavin Tinley.

Gavin’s session took the coaches through a typical 2020 class focussing on technique, skill development and quality touches of the ball.

The event ended with a presentation by Kenny More from Elite Sports Analysis which offered advice for people with limited budgets.

Ian added: “The 100 or so coaches who attended left with a range of new ideas and eager to put them into practice.

“The Scottish FA East region would like to thank those who attended but also the following people and teams: Jeff Flitcroft from Manchester United, Gavin Tinley - Scottish FA and Leisure and Culture Dundee, Kenny More from Elite Sports Analysis, Jeanfield Swifts 2001 and Jeanfield Swifts 1999.”